New air safety rules: Government bans these items from plane

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : The central government has taken a major step toward strengthening air safety by comprehensively amending regulations governing the transport of dangerous goods on aircraft. The new provisions, notified by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, implement a certification and accountability-based system, ensuring direct accountability for any lapses.

Dangerous goods refer to items or substances that may pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment. The rules have tightened the reporting requirements for dangerous goods. The Ministry has clarified that strict action will be taken if such items are carried on aircraft without declaration or by providing false information. Under the new rules, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been given special powers. If any negligence is found in the management of dangerous goods, the DGCA will be able to order an investigation and take necessary action.

The Aircraft (Transport of Dangerous Goods) Rules, 2026, were notified on February 17 after extensive consultations with stakeholders. Indian airlines will now be required to obtain mandatory certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the transport of dangerous goods. Foreign airlines will also be required to obtain prior permission before transporting such goods to or from India.

According to senior aviation officials, the old 2003 regulations largely conformed to International Civil Aviation Organization standards, but the new provisions make the monitoring system more transparent and accountable. This will help further strengthen air travel security.